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Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Kyle O'Sullivan

EastEnders' Ben Mitchell makes surprise return - but fans spot massive problem

Ben Mitchell made a surprise return to EastEnders tonight - but fans spotted a massive problem.

Kathy Beale asked Phil Mitchell to return home immediately for something "urgent".

Phil came back with new henchman Keanu Taylor and found the entire Mitchell clan gathered in the living room.

A big smile grew on Phil's face as he realised that his son had come home, exclaiming: "Ben!"

Grinning Ben, who was alongside Lola Pearce and his daughter Lexi, replied: "Hello dad."

Ben Mitchell is back in Albert Square (BBC)
Phil was delighted to see his son back (BBC)

Reason for Ben Mitchell's EastEnders return revealed in dramatic confrontation

However, viewers noticed that there was something very different about Ben, aside from his completely different face.

The troubled character, who is now being played by Max Bowden, was missing his trademark glasses and hearing aid.

EastEnders viewers started questioning whether a miracle recovery had taken place during his reincarnation.

The ever-changing face of Ben Mitchell (BBC)

They flocked to Twitter to comment on the ever-changing appearance of Ben Mitchell.

One viewer said: "They could have atleast stuck some glasses and a hearing aid on Ben"

Another added: "It's new head Ben!!! Where's the glasses?? Has he had those new mini hearing devices fitted in??"

A third said: "The return of old faces tonight #EastEnders what’s happened to #Ben where’s his glasses and hearing aid"

Charlie Jones played Ben between 2006-2010 (BBC)

Ben was first introduced to the soap in 1996 when he was played by Matthew Silver, before being replaced by Morgan Whittle in 1998.

Charlie Jones took up the mantle in 2006 as Ben was abused by step mum Stella before being sent to a juvenile detention centre after attacking Jordan Johnson with a spanner.

When Ben got out in 2010 he was was played by Joshua Pascoe until he was sent to prison for murdering jolly Heather Trott.

Harry Reid took over the role in 2014 before Ben tried to flee to France on a ferry with the stolen heist money.

EastEnders spoilers teased the return of Ben Mitchell and Lola Pearce (BBC / Jack Barnes)
Max starred in Waterloo Road as Justin (BBC)

EastEnders' Ben Mitchell making shock return with SIXTH actor playing role

Waterloo Road viewers will be familiar with new castmember Max, who played Justin Fitzgerald from 2014 to 2015.

Max, who has also appeared in Doctors and Casualty, said: “I’m so excited to be joining the cast of EastEnders and taking on the role of Ben Mitchell.

“I’ve always been a fan of the show so to be joining one of the most iconic families in soap is beyond exciting. I can’t wait to get started and see what’s in store for Ben.”

Ben, Lola and Lexi return to Albert Square (BBC / Kieron McCarron)

Ben will waste no time in getting down to business this week and insists on accompanying Phil and Keanu to The Arches.

Just as Phil is about to explain what's been going on Scouse gangster Danny rocks up demanding his money.

In the explosive Spring trailer for the soap, Ben says: "Come on dad. You and me. We can make the Mitchell name mean something."

Ben catches up with dad Phil in The Arches (BBC / Jack Barnes)

But it appears he is hiding a massive secret as later Lola tells him she's not on board with his scheme.

She says: "I can't do this I thought we could, but lying to everyone."

What are Ben and Lola really back for?

*EastEnders airs on BBC One on Mondays and Fridays at 8pm and Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7.30pm

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